Job summary
This post is for Band 5 PPI Lead Researcher for a new Wellcome funded study for a new Wellcome funded study, AVATAR3. The successful candidate will work as part of the team delivering next stages of work in AVATAR therapy, a blended digital intervention for distressing voices in psychosis. Having tested efficacy in rigorous randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and with replication emerging from independent research groups, our focus is on national and international implementation of AVATAR therapy.
In the AVATAR3 project we will establish AVATAR therapy Implementation and Training Hubs in two distinct LMIC settings (Ethiopia and India). In parallel work, we will develop an English-language version of AVATAR therapy in which automated dialogues are delivered using Artificial Intelligence (AVATAR-AI) and test the feasibility of delivery by a non-specialist UK workforce. The study has 5 key aims:
Aim 1: To develop, through diverse stakeholder engagement, ethically responsible and culturally acceptable adaptation of AVATAR therapy across LMIC and UK sites.
Aim 2: To establish Implementation Hubs in Ethiopia and India, to deliver and train AVATAR therapy.
Aim 3: To develop and conduct user testing of AI-powered conversational agents to deliver AVATAR therapy dialogues (in English).
Aim 4: To deliver AVATAR-AI, as a blended digital therapy.
Aim 5: To test the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical impact of AVATAR-AI (UK), delivered by non-specialist mental health workers.
Main duties of the job
The post-holder will work alongside colleagues in the team to develop and facilitate models of involvement across the study, including co-facilitation of Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP) groups. Understanding participants experience of AVATAR therapy is central to the UK based and international work on the AVATAR3 project. In UK based work, the post will involve supporting the co-design of AVATAR-AI which will involve people with lived experience of AVATAR therapy. The post-holder will also support recruitment, data collection and analysis in the planned feasibility study, where they will co-facilitate interviews with participants about their experience of receiving AVATAR-AI therapy. The post-holder will also help to support the international adaptation work.
About us
The post-holder will join a friendly study team and will be line managed by the SLaM Innovation and Training Lead (Dr Rebecca Kelly) and supported by the Research Workers based on the AVATAR3 project. The team ethos involves a strong commitment to inclusive involvement of Experts by Experts and a focus on ethical and responsible research innovation.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Key Responsibilities:
The post holder will:
Support Patient and Public Involvement and public engagement with the AVATAR3 study Support the co-design of AVATAR-AI Co-facilitate LEAP groups Support participants informed consent Conduct interviews with participants about their experience of receiving AVATAR-AI Collaborate with the research team to analyse interview transcripts Monitor and record research activities Effectively use supervision and contribute to team meetings Carry out other duties as agreed with the research team
Person Specification
Shortlisting
Essential
oGrade 4/C GCSEs in Maths and English, or equivalent. (A) oLived experience of psychosis. (A) oExperience of receiving mental health services for people with psychosis. (A) oExperience of, or feeling comfortable with, talking about their lived experience with peers and colleagues. (A/I) oExperience that supports working with, and addressing issues of, diversity and inclusion. (A/I) oKnowledge of PPI and co-production. (A/I) oWell-developed verbal and written communication skills including communicating complex information to clients, families, and colleagues. (A/I) oSkills to support people who may be distressed and vulnerable, and manage risk appropriately, with support from supervisor. (A/I) oAbility to work effectively with a team and independently, including recognition of strengths and limitations, seeking advice when needed. (A/I) oGood time management and organisational skills.
Desirable
oUndergraduate degree in subject related to science or healthcare. (A) oExperience of conducting research interviews with people with lived experience of psychosis. (A/I) oExperience of analysing and writing-up qualitative ( interview) research studies. (A/I) oExperience of blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or any other public engagement activities that have promoted research through PPI. (A/I)
